Woonsocket Reservoir # 3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 29, 2025

Woonsocket Reservoir # 3, located in North Smithfield, Rhode Island, is a vital water supply structure completed in 1895.


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Summary

The reservoir, with a storage capacity of 4740 acre-feet and a surface area of 227 acres, serves as a key source for water distribution in the region. It is regulated by the State of Rhode Island and has a dam height of 27 feet, with a hydraulic height of 28 feet.

Despite its historical significance, Woonsocket Reservoir # 3 faces challenges with a poor condition assessment and a high hazard potential. The last inspection in 2014 highlighted the need for improvements to ensure the safety and efficiency of the structure. With a spillway width of 25 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 433 cubic feet per second, there is a pressing need for maintenance and risk management measures to mitigate potential hazards.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is crucial to monitor and advocate for the preservation and enhancement of Woonsocket Reservoir # 3. With its critical role in water supply and the community's well-being, stakeholders should work towards implementing necessary upgrades and risk management strategies to safeguard this essential infrastructure for future generations.

Year Completed

1895

Dam Length

1500

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

CROOKFALL BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

227

Hydraulic Height

28

Drainage Area

3

Nid Storage

4740

Structural Height

28

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

28
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.